What’s On The Tray? Apples

Welcome to our monthly food-centered pop quiz – What’s on the Tray? – spotlighting foods that show up on breakfast and lunch trays, and why they matter.

Pop quiz: Which Minnesota-developed apple variety was released most recently?

A) Honeycrisp
B) First Kiss
C) Honeygold
D) Big Flirt

Answer: Big Flirt

Big Flirt was released in 2025, making it newer than First Kiss (2016), Honeycrisp (1991), and Honeygold (1966). Its crispiness and juiciness are similar to Honeycrisp, with a sweet and mild flavor.

Minnesota: The Land of 31 Apple Varieties

Since the University of Minnesota began its apple breeding program in 1878, it has released 31 apple varieties over the years. They span the early apple season (mid to late August), mid-season (early to late September) and late season (late September to late October). While some varieties are no longer available, the list includes some of these well-known faves.

Honeycrisp: Released in 1991, this popular variety with outstanding crispness, juiciness and overall well-balanced flavor is Minnesota’s official state fruit.

Did you know? Students from Andersen Elementary School in Bayport, MN suggested Honeycrisp as the state fruit, proving that big ideas can start in the lunchroom and classroom.

Honeygold: Released in 1966, this golden to yellow-green variety has a sweet, crisp, and juicy crunch that makes it excellent for eating fresh or cooking.

First Kiss (also known as Rave): Released in 2016, this tart-forward variety is among the newer apples and is also one of the most extraordinarily juicy.

A Side of Crunch with Nutritional Benefits

While an apple a day doesn’t literally keep the doctor away, it is packed with lots of nutrients that help support growing students.

Fiber for fullness: Apples are a good source of fiber, which supports good digestion and feelings of satisfaction.
Vitamin C for wellness: Apples provide vitamin C, which supports a strong immune system.
Antioxidants: Apples contain antioxidants, which help protect the body’s cells.

Pro tip: Keep the skin on! Much of an apple’s fiber, Vitamin C and antioxidants are found in or just under the skin

No matter how you slice it, apples are a scrumptious and nutritious way to add fruit to school meals.

Fun Apple Facts to Share with Students

🌳 There are over 7,500 varieties of apples in the world and about 2,500 apple varieties are grown in the United States.
😋 The average American eats 65 apples each year.
🇺🇲 Apple trees grow in all 50 states. The top three apple producing states in the US are Washington, New York and Michigan.
🍎 140+ orchards are part of the Minnesota Grown program.
💦 Apples can float! They’re about 25% air, which is what helps them bob in water.
🍏 More than red. Apple skins also come in shades of green, yellow and pink.
🌹 Apples are a member of the rose family.
🧺 A bushel of apples weighs 42 pounds.

Apples on the Tray

Apples are one of the most common and favorite fruits we include in meals. Here are a few ways local and regionally grown apples find their way on menus:

Fresh and whole just as nature intended them
Slices of honeycrisp apples perfect for snacking
Pureed into apple sauce for a comforting side
Baked into breakfast muffins for a sweet start to the day

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